איש על מחנהו ואיש על דגלו… (במדבר א:נב)

Every man at his camp and every man at his banner, according to the legions…

THE RAV REMAINS IN HIS POSITION

The Chazon Ish zt’’l once found out that the Baal Batim (dignified people) of a village near Tel Aviv were planning to lay off their Rav. The Rav didn’t know about their intention. Their plan was that the gabbaim (shul’s notables) approach their Rav after Maariv and share their decision.

The Rav used to deliver a Shiur daily between Mincha and Maariv and was surprised to see all the gabbaim attend that day, plus many more congregants.  In the middle of the shiur, the door opened, and the Chazon Ish, leaning on his cane, entered and approached the table where all the gabbaim were seated.

Although not all congregants recognized the Chazon Ish, those he did, whispered in wonderment at the Chazon Ish’s surprise visit from Bnei Brak. When the Rav finished his shiur, the Chazon Ish started raving about the shiur’s depth, the Rav’s broad knowledge, and great explanation.

The Chazon Ish wasn’t done.  After Maariv, he approached the Rav and, in a loud voice, thanked him for the beautiful shiur and again applauded the Rav for his brilliant deliverance.

The Baal Batim and the gabbaim stood transfixed.  They gazed at one another and nodded in unison.

Notably, their Rav stayed with his position!

Filed under Parshas Bamidbar |